Pew Research Center's Blog, page 47

Despite Energy Boom, Little Change in Views of Energy Policies

Americans are becoming more aware of the domestic energy boom and the recent drop in gas prices. Yet, views of energy policies have changed only modestly since 2011.

Privacy in 2025: Experts’ Predictions

We canvassed thousands of experts to ask them to predict the future of privacy in America and found they were divided on whether or not a secure, trusted privacy-rights infrastructure would be in place by 2025.

The Future of Privacy

Will governments and corporations expand current tracking policies? Or will innovators create new ways for individuals to control personal information? Experts are divided on whether a secure and balanced privacy-rights infrastructure will be in place by 2025.

Political Engagement Low in Emerging and Developing Nations

Most vote in elections, but few engage in other kinds of political participation or think those forms are effective. Publics overwhelmingly say that government officials do not care what they think.

Perceptions of Job News Trend Upward

For the first time in at least five years, as many Americans say they are hearing good news (26%) as bad news (25%) about the nation’s job situation; a 45% plurality reports hearing a mix of good and bad news.

Half See CIA Interrogation Methods as Justified

Following the Senate Intelligence Committee’s report on post-9/11 CIA interrogation practices, 51% of Americans say these CIA methods were justified, compared with 29% who say they were not.

Most Say Religious Holiday Displays on Public Property Are OK

A majority of Americans believe the historical accuracy of the biblical Christmas story and also look forward to gathering with friends and family for the holidays.

Are We Writing Off Obama Too Soon?

By Andrew Kohut With two years to go, Barack Obama is widely seen as a failed president, responsible for his party’s losses in the mid-term Congressional elections. He still faces strong headwinds on both domestic policy and foreign affairs. The notion that the president can make a comeback with the American public may seem very […]

Immigration Action Gets Mixed Response

Americans are divided over President Obama’s recent executive action that allows more unauthorized immigrants to stay and work in the U.S. At the same time, the public continues to support a pathway to legal status for those here illegally.

Few See Quick Cure for Nation’s Political Divisions

The public is deeply pessimistic about the prospects for healing the nation’s political divisions. And most Americans think continued partisan gridlock would wreak significant damage on the country.